How's it going today?
It’s going great. I’m just getting off of work and rushing home to get some seat time!

Tell everyone a little about yourself.
I’m Derrik Allen, #109 in 4 stroke A Lites on a Yamaha. I’m 18 years old, I work a full time job at Subaru of Indiana Automotive  in Laffayette, IN. I’m working to pursue a career in racing, a life-long goal. In my free time, if there is any, (laughs) I enjoy hunting, golfing, and biking.

How did you get started racing?
I got into racing by my dad. He used to race back in the day, and when I was about 5 he took me to my first one. From there on out, I haven’t been able to get enough of it since.

What has been the biggest accomplishment of your racing career? 
I have accomplished many things along the way, mostly just goals of my own to succeed. My biggest accomplishment though, is just improving my riding ability day by day. To know where I once started and where I am now. So far, that’s my biggest accomplishment.

Where do you hope to take your racing career in the future?
Obviously I would love to land that spot on pro row under one of those factory rigs. It’s been one of those long term goals that hopefully I can achieve. It’s just a matter of who "wants" it to happen, and who's going to "make" it happen! The sport is in my blood, and I hope to make it my job.

How did your race at The Mountaineer Run go?
Well, my bike didn’t start out of the hole, so I was kind of playing catch up, while trying not to die at the same time (laughs) Then, towards about the halfway point , I finally caught the leader and then I knew I had to dig deep and go. All in all I had a great time!

How has the rest of the 2012 season been going for you?
The 2012 season has definitely been going great. I’m finally competing up front regularly and learning a lot more than I have in past years. I actually got my first national win ever at Steele Creek this year! (laughs) I’m pretty sure I sang the whole way home too.

You've got a solid lead in the class points. What will it take for you to hold onto that lead?
We all know, in this sport you have to be super human. But consistency is key! If I can just consistently grab a podium finish and stay healthy, I hope to have a good chance of getting a championship.

Is taking the class championship your main goal for 2012?
Taking a class championship is definitely a goal, being that I don’t have one! (laughs) But my main focus is my overall finishes. I really want to compete for top amateur. That’s my main goal

Coming into the 2012 season, did you expect to be contending for the championship?
Yeah, I mean I had some guidelines set where I thought I should be, and what I had to do to get myself to that point. I wasn’t too far off, and I actually started the season off better than I had predicted. I didn’t complain though.

Have you given any thought to your plans for 2013 yet?
2013 is just another year right now, we have to let this year play out. Hopefully I catch some people’s eyes and get some help so the race seasons are a little less stressful trying to train, maintain a full time job, and keep yourself healthy, and on routine schedule. Yes, could tell you where I hope to be, but there’s a lot of time between now and then. I’m just going to keep giving it 110% and everything else should fall into place! 

Who would you like to thank?
First and foremost, I would like to thank my Dad, I wouldn’t be here without him, he was my biggest supporter and role model! Then my mom, ever since she’s kind of been a race mom and dad. (laughs) I couldn’t thank her enough, she does everything in her will for me and my career. I love you guys! My girlfriend Allison, for getting me through all the rough times, and prepping all my gear and goggles which is her full time job (laughs) My uncles and brothers play a huge role also. From driving me, to going out and coaching me, or just literally being there for me. I’d like to thank Keith with Obermeyer Yamaha, his endless amount of help and interest has driven me so much! It’s been a pleasure being able to represent a name that he upholds! Randy Hawkins for all help. A big thanks to Troy Myers for helping with parts and bike setups, and being a great role model! And thanks to Daddy Nash for all his pit help! He’s the bomb! 

Big thanks to Unabiker, Fly Racing, Fit4Racing, Three Graphics, Amsoil, Sidi, FMF, Cycra, etc.. Thanks for everyone’s support!